1. Remember – You MUST write in PARAGRAPHS
So where do you begin?
How will I be assessed?
Step 1
Read back through the information that you have gathered.
Step 2
Use your information to complete the sections of your plan sheet – Introduction, reasons for the Armada failing, and evidence to support each reason.
Step 3
Decide what you think the most important reason was, and use this to complete the plan for your conclusion.
Step 4
Add any additional information you want to include in your answer.
Step 5
Write your explanation. You must include the following:
Introduction
A supported argument
Conclusion
Remember – You MUST write in PARAGRAPHS
Level 2
The answer includes some facts about the Spanish Armada and may include keywords. It is not written in paragraphs and is poorly presented
Level 3
The answer gives a few reasons why the Spanish Armada failed, but does not explain them. It includes keywords and is written in short paragraphs. Presentation is ok.
Level 4
The answer states all of the main reasons why the Spanish Armada was not successful, and decides which was the most important reason. The answer includes some of your own ideas. It uses keywords at times and is written in paragraphs. The answer has been written up neatly.
Level 5
The answer explains why the Spanish Armada failed and uses some evidence to back up the argument. The answer may recognise links between reasons but does not explain them. It may include additional reasons and information from other sources. The student has used keywords, and written their answer in well developed paragraphs. Presentation is very good.
Level 6
The answer explains in a detailed way why the Spanish Armada failed and explains the links between reasons. Evidence is used to back up the argument. It may include additional reasons and information from other sources. The answer is made up of long paragraphs, and there are no spelling mistakes. Presentation is excellent.
Level 7
The answer does everything mentioned above, but also begins to look at the wider historical context of the Spanish Armada. The answer will also consider the significance of the Spanish Armada in the long term.

2. Checklist
Why did the
Spanish Armada fail?
Cross off items once you have included them in your letter
Introduction
Reasons why the Armada failed.
Evidence to support why the Armada failed.
Is my answer written in paragraphs?
Conclusion
Now that you have investigated the Spanish Armada, you are going to produce a written answer to the above question.
This answer will form part of your year 8 assessment in history and will be given a National Curriculum level.